READING TIME: 4 min 38 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 03/04/2025
UPDATED: 03/04/2025
Some photographers capture images. Others, like Maddie Mellott, capture emotions, weaving stories through the lens in a way that is both timeless and deeply personal. With a career spanning eight years in the wedding industry, Maddie has built a reputation for her ability to document love in its most raw and unfiltered form.
“I’ve always been drawn to the art of capturing moments, and photography has been a creative outlet for me since I was young,” Maddie shares. “Over the years, I’ve refined my craft and developed a style that’s rooted in authenticity, natural light, and emotion.”
Maddie’s love for photography began early, but her transition into weddings was a gradual, organic evolution. “I initially started my photography journey capturing various events and gradually fell in love with the wedding world. What drew me in was the opportunity to document such meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime moments.”
The heart of her work lies in preserving real emotions—unscripted, fleeting, and beautiful. “I truly feel honored to be part of such an important day in people’s lives and love witnessing the emotions and memories that unfold.”
When asked how she would describe her approach, Maddie emphasizes her preference for natural moments over staged perfection.
“My photography style is a blend of candid, documentary-style imagery with a touch of artistry. I focus on capturing raw, authentic moments that reflect the true connection between people—whether it’s the quiet glances between a couple, the joy shared by a family, or the fleeting emotions throughout the day.”
She draws inspiration from vintage film, nostalgia, and a love for timeless elegance. “I aim to create timeless, film-inspired images that evoke a sense of nostalgia, using natural light and a relaxed approach to let the moments unfold organically.”
Maddie’s ability to capture emotion so effortlessly is a result of not just her talent, but also her carefully curated selection of equipment.
“I work with a mix of digital, film, and Super 8mm equipment to capture my clients' special moments,” she explains. “For digital photography, I use high-quality cameras and lenses that allow me to achieve sharp, detailed images with beautiful depth and bokeh. I also love incorporating film with my medium format cameras, which provide a timeless, nostalgic feel with rich textures and soft grain.”
Adding to her unique approach is her use of Super 8mm film, which brings a cinematic, vintage touch to her work. “This combination of equipment allows me to create a diverse range of images that perfectly reflect the emotion and beauty of each moment.”
Post-processing plays a key role in Maddie’s signature aesthetic, but she prefers to keep things natural.
“My post-processing process is all about enhancing the natural beauty and emotion captured in the moment while keeping things authentic. I aim to preserve the organic feel of the images with minimal editing—adjusting things like exposure, color balance, and contrast to make sure the tones are true to life.”
For Maddie, warmth, nostalgia, and timelessness are at the core of her editing style. “I love keeping the imagery warm, timeless, and classic, often using subtle techniques that give a film-like, nostalgic feel.”
For Maddie, wedding photography is about more than just taking pictures—it’s about preserving once-in-a-lifetime emotions.
“What I love most about being a photographer is the opportunity to capture authentic, emotional moments that tell a story. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about freezing time in a way that allows people to relive their most cherished memories.”
She describes the connections she builds with her couples as one of the most rewarding aspects of her job. “Photography allows me to connect with people on such a personal level and witness these moments unfold. I feel incredibly grateful to be trusted with preserving such meaningful milestones in people’s lives.”
Maddie believes that the key to creating stunning wedding photography lies in truly understanding her clients.
“I believe in building a genuine connection with my clients from the very beginning. I take the time to get to know them, their story, and what’s important to them for their wedding day.”
Her process is deeply collaborative. “By having open conversations about their vision, preferred style, and any specific moments they want captured, I can tailor my approach to fit their desires. Communication is key—whether through emails, calls, or even an in-person meeting—I ensure they feel heard and supported every step of the way.”
Every love story is unique, and Maddie believes wedding photography should reflect that individuality. “Yes, I always work closely with my couples to create a custom package that perfectly suits their needs. Every wedding is unique, so I take the time to understand each couple’s vision.”
Whether it’s adjusting coverage hours, adding a second shooter, or incorporating Super 8mm film, Maddie ensures her couples receive a tailored experience that reflects their story.
Having worked with countless couples, Maddie has a few expert recommendations to ensure the best possible photos.
“First, I always recommend that clients be themselves and embrace the moment. Natural, candid photos are my focus, so the more relaxed and comfortable you feel, the better your photos will turn out.”
She also highlights the importance of planning. “For a wedding or event, I suggest planning out your timeline in advance to make sure there’s plenty of time for relaxed, unposed moments.”
And for those feeling camera shy? “If you feel a little nervous about being in front of the camera, having a drink or two (responsibly, of course) can help you relax and feel more comfortable during the shoot.”
Maddie’s passion for wedding photography extends far beyond her local area—she adores destination weddings. “Yes, I absolutely love doing destination weddings! There’s something so magical about traveling to new places and being able to capture couples in unique and breathtaking locations.”
When asked about her favorite destinations, Maddie lights up. “I have a deep love for Italy, especially the Amalfi Coast, with its stunning views and romantic atmosphere. I also have a special connection to the mountains—Alberta and BC always feel like home to me.”
With upcoming European weddings on the horizon, Maddie is excited to continue her journey capturing love in some of the world’s most beautiful locations. “The diversity of locations makes every wedding feel like a new adventure, and I love capturing couples in these unforgettable places.”
For Maddie Mellott, wedding photography is not just a career—it’s a passion, an art, and a privilege. With her keen eye for detail, dedication to storytelling, and unwavering commitment to authenticity, she continues to create stunning visual narratives that couples cherish for a lifetime.
“I truly feel honored to be part of such an important day in people’s lives and love witnessing the emotions and memories that unfold.”
